Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, unveiled and initiated a range of development projects in Shirdi, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, totaling approximately Rs 7,500 crores in various sectors including healthcare, railways, road infrastructure, and the oil and gas industry.
These projects encompass significant initiatives such as the establishment of an Ayush Hospital at Ahmednagar Civil Hospital, the electrification of the Kurduwadi-Latur Road railway section covering 186 kilometers, the addition of a third and fourth railway line connecting Jalgaon to Bhusaval spanning 24.46 kilometers, the expansion of the Sangli to Borgaon section of NH-166 (Package-I) to include four lanes, and the enhancement of facilities at the Manmad Terminal of the Indian Oil Corporation Limited. Furthermore, the foundation stone was laid for the Maternal & Child Health Wing at Ahmednagar Civil Hospital.
During the event, Shri Modi also distributed Ayushman cards and Svamitva cards to beneficiaries, providing them with access to healthcare and land ownership support. In addition to these developments, the Prime Minister inaugurated the new Darshan Queue complex at Shirdi, which offers improved facilities for devotees and includes waiting halls with a combined seating capacity of over ten thousand individuals. This modern facility is equipped with amenities such as air-conditioning, cloakrooms, toilets, booking counters, and prasad counters, enhancing the overall experience for pilgrims.
Shri Modi dedicated the left bank canal network of the Nilwande Dam, covering 85 kilometers, to the nation. This network will benefit 182 villages in 7 Tehsils, primarily in the Ahmednagar district, by enabling the distribution of water through pipe networks. The Nilwande Dam project, initially conceived in 1970, is being developed at an estimated cost of about Rs 5,177 crores.
The Prime Minister also introduced the ‘Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana,’ a scheme set to benefit more than 86 lakh farmer-beneficiaries in Maharashtra by providing an additional annual amount of Rs 6,000 to those already enrolled in the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana.
Moreover, Shri Modi spoke about various government initiatives and their impact, emphasizing the commitment to the welfare of the poor and the empowerment of farmers. He highlighted the government’s efforts in increasing healthcare access, providing free ration, and constructing housing for the underprivileged. The Prime Minister also mentioned substantial investments in water supply and assistance for street vendors through the PM Svanidhi Scheme.
Regarding agricultural support, Shri Modi highlighted the significant increase in minimum support prices (MSP) for various crops, as well as the procurement of oilseeds and pulses. Direct benefit transfer mechanisms have contributed to reducing corruption and leakage in welfare programs. Shri Modi acknowledged the importance of cooperative movements and stated that over 2 lakh cooperative societies are being established nationwide. He also emphasized the role of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in organizing small farmers.
In closing, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of Maharashtra’s development and how it contributes to India’s overall progress. He noted the expansion of railway networks and road infrastructure, which would facilitate easier transportation and economic development, benefiting both industries and farmers in the region. Shri Narendra Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the growth and prosperity of all sections of society.
